It's been a good long while since we'd heard from the front of a potential 'The Walking Dead' spinoff/companion series on AMC, but with the fifth season due in a month's time, it seems the network is solidifying their grip on the zombie apocalypse. AMC has officially ordered a pilot for the forthcoming 'Walking Dead' companion series, set to explore a new corner of the in-show universe, because it apparently...wasn't official enough at first.

Oh, and it's a "companion series" rather than a spinoff, as the new incarnation won't feature any of the current 'Walking Dead' cast. Here's what AMC had to say of the "news":

Almost from the beginning of The Walking Dead on AMC, fans have been curious about what is going on in the zombie apocalypse in other parts of the world. In fact, beyond requests for zombie cameos, it’s the question I get asked the most. Obviously, we all take our stewardship of the original franchise incredibly seriously and we, along with Robert, Gale, David and now Dave, are all proceeding with extreme care in order to ensure that we are offering fans something truly compelling, engaging and distinct. We’re thrilled to be taking this next step with these remarkable partners.

Adds creator Kirkman:

There are many corners of The Walking Dead universe that remain unseen in the shadows. Being given the opportunity to shine a light into those corners and see what lurks out there is an absolute thrill. I know the fans are anxious to hear what Dave and I have been cooking up for this new universe of The Walking Dead, and I’m happy to be one step closer to sharing it with them.

At the very least, we know that the series won't be set in Georgia, but could potentially cross over with the main 'Walking Dead' cast in time, as Kirkman previously offered up a few thoughts as to what might bring the series together. Hopefully AMC will have some actual details in the future beyond pilot production later this year, but what say you? Are you happy to have a 'Walking Dead' "companion series" officially moving forward for 2015?